Posted on: Saturday, June 23, 2001

Editorial
Theater for Youth a gem to be saved

Island keiki and their parents owe a debt of gratitude to The Honolulu Theatre for Youth and to Jane Campbell.

HTY, one of the gems of Hawai'i theater, has brought stage productions and drama education to life for thousands of Island youngsters over the years. For 42 of those years, Jane Campbell has been an integral part of the theater. Campbell, managing and producing director of HTY since 1977, has announced she will bow out next May. She has earned a standing ovation for her role in helping HTY enrich the lives of our children.

Unfortunately, HTY is at a crossroads of sorts. The theater is struggling financially. The April teachers strike left the theater company $40,000 in arrears after several school-financed performances were cancelled. The organization is behind on its rent, has laid off staff and finds itself paying additional interest on a loan.

You could become an HTY angel. The smallest of donations can go a long way. A generous check could enrich many budding thespians. Just $40 will subsidize admission to a performance for four students; $5,000 will commission a play. So, send your check today to Honolulu Theatre for Youth, 2846 Ualena St., Honolulu HI 96819-1910.